National Center for Advancing and Translational Sciences Genetic and Rare Diseases Information Center, a program of the National Center for Advancing and Translational Sciences

Pancreatitis, pediatric


Pediatric pancreatitis is a condition that causes the pancreas to become inflamed in children. Acute refers to conditions that occur suddenly and have a short course. Symptoms of acute pediatric pancreatitis may include stomach pain, persistent vomiting, and fever.[1] Common causes include blunt abdominal injury, structural defects (e.g., pancreas divisum), medications, viruses, and gallstones.[2][1] Acute pediatric pancreatitis may also be associated with systemic disease (e.g., hemolytic uremic syndrome). If left untreated acute pancreatitis can progress to the chronic form which is more persistent and involves inflammation and scarring of the pancreas.
Last updated: 7/19/2013
Children with acute pancreatitis may experience stomach pain, persistent vomiting, and fever. Their abdomen may be distended and tender. The pain increases in intensity for 24 to 48 hours, during which time vomiting may increase and the child may require hospitalization for dehydration.[1]

Severe acute pancreatitis is rare in children. This form of pancreatitis can become life-threatening. In addition to the symptoms listed above, these children may have ascites, jaundice, hypocalcemia, shock, and pleural effusions. A bluish discoloration may be seen around the belly button or on the side.[1]

Last updated: 7/19/2013
All families with children with pediatric pancreatitis should work with their child's health care team in developing a treatment plan. For cases of uncomplicated acute pediatric pancreatitis the aims of treatment are to relieve pain and stabilize the child’s metabolism. Pain medication is given and fluid, electrolyte, and mineral balance is restored and maintained.[1]
Last updated: 7/19/2013
The prognosis for children with an acute uncomplicated case of pancreatitis is excellent and children usually recover over a period of 2 to 5 days.[1] When pancreatitis is associated with trauma or systemic disease, the prognosis is typically related to the associated medical conditions.[1]
Last updated: 7/19/2013

Support and advocacy groups can help you connect with other patients and families, and they can provide valuable services. Many develop patient-centered information and are the driving force behind research for better treatments and possible cures. They can direct you to research, resources, and services. Many organizations also have experts who serve as medical advisors or provide lists of doctors/clinics. Visit the group’s website or contact them to learn about the services they offer. Inclusion on this list is not an endorsement by GARD.

Organizations Supporting this Disease

Organizations Providing General Support

These resources provide more information about this condition or associated symptoms. The in-depth resources contain medical and scientific language that may be hard to understand. You may want to review these resources with a medical professional.

Where to Start

In-Depth Information

  • PubMed is a searchable database of medical literature and lists journal articles that discuss Pancreatitis, pediatric. Click on the link to view a sample search on this topic.

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  • My son has been diagnose with acute pancreatitis. Please help me find more information, treatment, and medication. See answer


  1. Werlin SL. Pancreatitis. In: Behrman RE, Kliegman RM, Jenson HB, eds. Behrman: Nelson Textbook of Pediatrics. 17th ed. United States: Saunders, An Imprint of Elseiver;2004..
  2. Whitcomb DC. Hereditary, Familial, and Genetic Disorders of the Pancreas and Pancreatic Disorders in Childhood. In: Feldman M, Friedman LS, Brandt LJ. Feldman: Sleisenger & Fordtran's Gastrointestinal and Liver Disease, 8th ed.. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2006;